NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Muffet McGraw and Geno Auriemma were well aware of the talk. There has been a buzz throughout women's basketball all season about the potential showdown between their undefeated teams. Well, the wait is over.
UConn (39-0) and Notre Dame (37-0) are set to meet in an unprecedented championship clash Tuesday night. "I think it's something that everyone's looked forward to all year long," McGraw said. "People were hoping we would end up here. It's great for the game and I think it's great we're both undefeated coming into it. It should be a great matchup for women's basketball."
Auriemma agreed that this once in a lifetime matchup — the first time undefeated basketball teams, men or women, have met for the NCAA national crown — could help grow the women's game.
"An awful lot of people might tune in Tuesday night that wouldn't normally tune in," he said. "A game on national television between two great teams, nothing could be better for the sport."
There's also so much at stake for both teams. A victory by UConn over its rival would be the ninth of Geno Auriemma's career breaking a tie with Pat Summitt for the most all-time. And if he does it, he'll accomplish it in Summitt's backyard.
"I'm not a numbers guy and don't get caught up in that stuff," Auriemma said. "Wednesday morning when I wake up, my life doesn't change one iota. Stewie (Breanna Stewart) says she came to win four national championships, that's what I think is more significant. For Bria (Hartley) and Stef (Dolson) to win a national championship their senior years. They get 'X' amount of chances to do it. God willing, I'll get more chances down the road."
While Auriemma deflected the talk on a record title, Dolson is happy to be a part of it.
I am suggesting that ALL my readers watch this game tomorrow night, I guarantee that you will enjoy it. Top quality basketball, played at the highest level, the way the game should be played. One team will be "sad" after the game, but they will graciously congratulate the winner, and it WILL be a GREAT GAME. Do yourself a favor and watch this game ............
